A wetsuit is composed multiple panels sewn together in edge-to-edge relationship, each panel comprising a highly stretchable base fabric sandwiched between an outer and inner layer of synthetic rubber, the outer synthetic rubber layer is dense and tough, providing protection against damage by abrasion, while the inner synthetic rubber layer is thicker and less dense, providing the material with a good insulating ability. The outer layer is thinner than the inner layer to compensate for the higher elastic modulus of the denser outer layer, so that the layers stretch uniformly. A thin, colored, chloroprene adhesive coating is provided on the outside of the outer layer, and the outer layer is embossed with a mesh pattern. The seams are blind-stitched through the base fabric from the outside. Because the stretchable fabric is on the inside of the wetsuit material, the wetsuit dries rapidly.